Carnaval in Brazil, samba schools and African culture: a study of samba schools through their African heritage

Abstract

<p>The objective of my thesis was to research the preservation of African Heritage in the Samba Schools of Rio de Janeiro and the subsequent modernization of these Samba Schools and their entry into the world scene through globalization. Through these processes, Samba Schools are being recognized as a cultural product for export, and are receiving national and transnational sponsorships for whoever wants to display their image around the world. The paper also presents Carnaval as a festival related to religion, ethnicity and politics. In addition, this research shows the persistence of black Brazilians in preserving their heritage in their music, religion and dances. Through the Africanization of the Samba Schools in Rio de Janeiro and, in turn, Carnaval in Brazil, black Brazilians could finally have elements of their culture integrated into Brazilian society. Through globalization, Brazilians in Diaspora celebrate Carnaval in many different countries, including the US and Canada, and I examined Carnaval in Ames, Iowa first hand, through my own participation, observation, and interviews.</p>